Meet McQueens' Karim Duc

We spoke to Karim about his love of flowers, and why you should always listen to your mother!

Karim Duc, a talented young florist, originally from Switzerland is the newest member of the McQueens team. With a background in graphic design, we were interested to find out when his love of flowers first bloomed. 

1) When did you first realise that you wanted to be a florist?

I was 20 years old and had two completely different jobs. I started off my working life as a professional horse rider, which I loved but was felt it was too intensive with the amount of work required. I have always been creative so I trained to be a graphic designer. I discovered that sitting behind a desk all day wasn’t for me! My mum suggested that I consider working with flowers and I might never have thought of it if it wasn’t for her.

2) What is it like to work in a female dominated industry?

When I began my training in Switzerland I was the only male florist amongst my group. But that suited me and I enjoyed the experience. Working at McQueens now we have many male florists so I think there is a shift within the industry for more men working with flowers. 

3) What exciting events are you working on at the moment?

I work in a large  team of amazing event florists and it’s wedding season at the moment - we have been creating flowers for lots of incredible weddings in London and throughout the UK. 

4) Highlight of your career to date?

Getting my job at McQueens has been a real highlight as I was very aware of their work whilst I was in Switzerland and I had an ambition to work at McQueens for a long time.

5) Moving from Switzerland, is living in London as you expected? Has there been any surprises?

Getting the job was the easiest part. I have had such a warm welcome from my colleagues - that made me feel very at home. Accommodation was tricky at first and my English was very limited but I have settled in and love working and living in London.

6) What is your favourite flower?

I am obsessed with Dahlia at this time of year. I think they are an amazing flower!

7) Who would be you dream client?

It’s great to work on a brief with a client who has a real passion and knowledge about flowers. We have lots of clients who love flowers and they are always wonderful clients.

8) Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration everywhere. Social media is an amazing place to look to for inspiration but I can feel just as inspired by a walk in the park – looking at nature.

(Watch Karim in action, designing a classic combination using Hyacinth, muscari and anemone here)

9) If you weren’t a florist what would you be?

I would be a gardener for sure. Flowers and plants will always be part of my life. 

10) Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

The exciting thing is that I have no idea! One day I would like to have a shop in Switzerland but who knows?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read more about Karim's flower journey